Simmons University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme integrates biochemistry, molecular biology and biophysics to give a molecular-level understanding of living systems. The curriculum balances foundational coursework in chemistry, physics and biology with specialised classes and substantial hands-on laboratory training. Students take sequential courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry and physical chemistry; introductory and advanced cell and molecular biology; genetics; biochemistry; and a biophysics sequence covering thermodynamics, kinetics and techniques such as spectroscopy and microscopy.

Typical modules and topics include:

• General Chemistry and Laboratory Techniques
• Organic Chemistry with Synthetic and Analytical Methods
• Physical Chemistry Fundamentals for the Life Sciences
• Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
• Biochemistry I and II (proteins, enzymes, metabolism)
• Biophysical Methods (spectroscopy, surface techniques, imaging)
• Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology (PCR, cloning, sequencing prep)
• Computational/Quantitative Methods for Biological Data
• Ethics and Communication in Science
• Capstone Project or Senior Research Thesis with a laboratory mentor

Programme structure emphasises progressive laboratory experience: early introductory labs develop technical competence, intermediate courses introduce experimental design and data analysis, and senior-year research or capstone projects allow students to conduct independent work under faculty supervision. Opportunities for summer research, internships with Boston-area biotech and clinical labs, and cross-disciplinary electives in data science or public health are commonly available.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically present a strong high-school academic record with emphasis on mathematics and science. Recommended preparation includes high-school courses in biology, chemistry and mathematics (calculus or pre-calculus where available). Experience with laboratory work or science research is advantageous but not always required.

Typical admissions expectations include:

• A completed secondary school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades, particularly in science and maths subjects
• Evidence of quantitative ability and scientific preparation (high-school maths and chemistry recommended)
• Personal statement describing interest in molecular life sciences and any relevant lab, research, volunteer or internship experience
• Letters of recommendation from teachers who can speak to academic readiness in science and mathematics

Standardised test policies and portfolio requirements may vary; applicants should consult Simmons University admissions for current guidance. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college transcripts and evidence of success in prior STEM coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of scientific careers or for further study. Common pathways include entry into graduate programmes (PhD, MD, DDS), professional health programmes, or employment in research and development.

• Research scientist or technician roles in academic, government or commercial laboratories
• Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry positions in assay development, quality control, process development or regulatory affairs
• Clinical laboratory scientist roles following appropriate certification or further training
• Positions in science policy, regulatory agencies, intellectual property consulting, or scientific publishing and communication
• Further study in biomedical sciences, public health, computational biology or medical and allied health professions

The programme’s emphasis on laboratory skills, data analysis and communication, plus access to internships in the Boston biotech ecosystem, helps graduates move into both hands-on technical roles and research positions or to pursue advanced degrees.

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and personalised faculty mentoring, which benefits students navigating an intensive science curriculum. Located in Boston, the university provides proximity to a dense cluster of hospitals, research institutions and biotech companies, facilitating internships, research collaborations and networking.

Undergraduates have opportunities for mentored research in faculty laboratories, interdisciplinary study across science and health-related fields, and career support tailored to science students. The university’s focus on leadership and professional development, combined with hands-on laboratory training and access to regional scientific resources, makes it a strong choice for students seeking a rigorous molecular biosciences education within a supportive undergraduate community.